Epigenetic regulation by DNA methyltransferases during torpor in the thirteen-lined ground squirrel Ictidomys...

The thirteen-lined ground squirrel, Ictidomys tridecemlineatus, is a mammal capable of lowering its T_b to almost 0 °C while undergoing deep torpor bouts over the winter. To decrease its metabolic rate to such a drastic extent, the squirrel must undergo multiple physiological, biological, and molecular alterations including downregulation of almost all nonessential processes. Epigenetic regulation allows for a dynamic range of transient phenotypes, allowing the squirrel to downregulate energy-expensive and nonessential pathways during torpor. DNA methylation is a prominent form of epigenetic regulation; therefore, the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) family of enzymes were studied by measuring expression and activity levels of the five major proteins during torpor bouts. Additionally, specific cytosine marks on genomic DNA were quantified to further elucidate DNA methylation during hibernation. A tissue-specific response was observed that highlighted variant degrees of DNA methylation and DNMT expression/activity, demonstrating that DNA methylation is a highly complex form of epigenetic regulation and likely one of many regulatory mechanisms that enables metabolic rate depression in response to torpor.